Key Takeaways
1. OM System is actively developing an upgraded version of the Olympus Pen-F camera, indicating its importance in their product lineup.
2. The new Pen camera will likely continue to utilize the Micro Four Thirds system.
3. OM System aims to appeal to a wide audience, particularly those new to standalone cameras who may currently prefer smartphones.
4. The upcoming Pen camera will compete with compact models like the Canon PowerShot V1, PowerShot V3, and Sony ZV-E10 II, targeting social media users.
5. Potential features may include simpler controls to attract smartphone users, similar to existing models like the Fujifilm X-T50.
Olympus, now known as OM System, has fans of the Micro Four Thirds community eagerly awaiting an upgraded version of the Olympus Pen-F camera. This camera was a pioneer in the compact Micro Four Thirds category. When OM System revealed the OM System OM-3, a compact interchangeable-lens M43 camera with retro design, many believed it would take the place of the Pen F.
Updates on the Pen Camera
However, Kazuhiro Togashi, the Vice President of Brand Planning and Product Strategy at OM System, stated (through PetaPixel) that the company is looking into ways to create an updated Pen camera. PetaPixel also mentioned in the comments section that OM System has confirmed the Pen camera is “in active development.” While this doesn’t clarify a specific release date, it’s certainly positive news for those who appreciate the Pen series.
Togashi shared, “We think the Pen series is a key part of our lineup. We’re examining how successful the Pen series has been, but the OM-3 is not a replacement for the Pen. The Pen series continues to be vital to our offerings, and we are actively thinking about what new Pen model we can provide as OM System.”
Future Directions for the Pen Series
This indicates that any upcoming compact Pen camera will likely still utilize the Micro Four Thirds system. Additional comments from the same interview imply that OM System plans to appeal to a broad audience with the next Pen camera.
“We want to ensure that photographers find joy in using the camera. We’re really looking into what kind of product may be more appealing for new users. Some might still prefer their smartphones, but might have a budding interest in standalone cameras.”
OM System will then be going head-to-head with products like the Canon PowerShot V1, the recently revealed PowerShot V3, and the Sony ZV-E10 II (currently priced at $998 on Amazon). These models target a demographic that focuses on compact cameras for their social media needs. Although it’s still quite early in the process, any camera aimed at this audience will probably need to be priced reasonably — somewhere between $900 and $1,500 — to resonate with most buyers.
Potential Features and Controls
OM System’s remarks about attracting smartphone users hint that they may choose to have simpler controls, similar to the film simulation dial on the Fujifilm X-T50 (currently available for $1,399 at Best Buy).
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